Multiple bombings hit Baghdad markets

At least 23 killed in explosions at two outdoor markets in Iraqi capital.

26 Sep 2013 14:37 GMT

Attacks on two Baghdad locations has killed at least 23 people according to Iraqi officilals

Iraqi officials say bombings at two outdoor markets near Baghdad have killed at least 23 people.

Four bombs in the Saba al-Bur area north of Baghdad killed at least 13 people, while another bomb blast in a market in the Dura area of south Baghdad killed 10, the officials said.

Police officials said a bomb hidden behind a kiosk went off on Thursday as shoppers crowded inside the al-Athorein market in the city's Dura neighbourhood. The officials said the explosions also wounded scores of people.

Opposition fighters in Iraq often target crowded places such as markets, cafes and mosques in order to inflict huge casualties. More than 4,000 people have been killed in violence during the past few months.